Gelated crab meat and food products derived from gelated crab meat

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present invention relate to food products and methods and systems for producing such products. The food products of the present invention may include uncooked crab meat from species within Decopada Infrorders Anomura (i.e., King Crab and the like) and Brachyura Swimming Crabs and the like) that has been treated with an agent to promote gelation without cooking the meat.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S.application Ser. No. 11/788,768, filed Apr. 20, 2007, which in turnclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60/794,272, filedApr. 20, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60/812,771, filedJun. 12, 2006. The disclosure of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/788,768and of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications 60/794,272 and 60/812,771are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to gelated crab meat and food productsderived from gelated crab meat.

BACKGROUND

The meats of many species of Decapoda are highly valued seafoodproducts, have been sustainable food sources for thousands of years, andcomprise a multi-billion dollar segment of the overall global seafoodindustry. Within the infraorders Anomura and Brachyura are included themany commercial species of crab, Anomura includes the species commonlyreferred to as King Crab or Stone Crab. Brachyura includes allcommercial species of crabs known as “Swimming Crabs” (e.g., SapidusBlue Crab, Portunus pelagicus Blue Swimming Crab, Scylla serrata MudCrab, Portunus trituberculatus ‘Gazami’).

Commercial species of Swimming Crabs are similar such that meat from onetype of Swimming Crab may be considered to be directly interchangeablefor the meat of another type of Swimming Crab both from a culinarystandpoint, and in terms of market classification. Also, the standardcommercial methods used for processing the meats of these species may besubstantially the same, as the skeletal and muscular systems for each ofthe species are similar to each other.

Crabs are considered to be a delicacy, but may not be popular with someconsumers due to the difficulty of extracting the meat from the shell.For example, although the meat in the claws is considered by many to besome of the highest quality meat in a crab, it can be quite difficult toget to the meat due to the thickness of the shell. Also, commercialprocessing of hard shelled crabs is complicated by the need to separatethe meat from the shell. For example, when crabs are harvested they maybe graded by size. The large crabs may be sold whole to restaurants andsteam bars where they are generally cooked and eaten as whole crabs.Smaller crabs, however, may be sent to a picking house. Once in thepicking house, the crabs may be steamed, and then the crabs are manuallycracked and the meat is picked from the shell. This meat may be packagedand sold as pre-cooked crab meat.

Thus, uncooked crab meat is not generally used as a food source. It hasnot been considered feasible to extract raw crab meat in order topre-cook and package the meat. Nor has it been considered commerciallyfeasible to extract and sell crab meat as a raw product as is commonlydone with virtually all other meats, whether from land or marinecreatures. The unavailability of extracted uncooked crab meat is aglobal condition, and is the result of the nature of the crab'sexoskeletal structure, combined with the fluid consistency of the crabmeat, which makes the meat seemingly uneconomical to produce and use.Cooking the crab, by steaming/boiling while the crab is still alive, orsoaking the crab in acid, can be used to cause the crab meat protein todenature and aggregate, thereby making extraction of the meatmanageable. Thus, cooking the crab for treatment with acid) causesproteins to denature producing a ‘chunky’ meat that can be extracted(picked) from the shell and eaten. Cooked crabs can also be servedwhole, in which case the person eating the crab is required to removethe meat from the shell. This is a significant distinction from otherseafood and meat products which are commonly processed and sold in theirraw state.

Thus, there is a need to be able to utilize uncooked meat harvested fromcrabs. Also, based on the popularity of fish products, such as sushi,fish rolls, and the like, there is a need to provide uncooked crab meatthat can be presented in a variety of forms such as nuggets, fillets,medallions or slices that may be made into various forms.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present invention relate to gelated crab meat andfood products derived such gelated crab meat. The present invention maybe embodied in a variety of ways.

In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a method for thepreparation of crab meat for use in food products comprising obtaininguncooked meat from a crab and mixing the uncooked meat with at least oneprotein binding agent that promotes protein binding. The method mayfurther comprise incubating the meat and the at least one proteinbinding agent under conditions such that proteins in the meat bind toeach other and/or to proteins present in the binding agent to the extentthat gelation of the meat occurs. In one embodiment, the method may alsocomprise incubating the meat and protein binding agent under conditionsto produce a meat product that comprises a form that is substantiallysolid.

Other embodiments of the present invention comprise articles ofmanufacture comprising uncooked raw crab meat and at least one proteinbinding agent that promotes protein binding, wherein the at least oneprotein binding agent is added in an amount such that proteins in themeat and/or in the protein binding agent bind to each other to theextent that gelation of the crab meat occurs to form a gelated crab meatproduct.

Other embodiments and further details on various aspects of the presentinvention are set forth in the following description, figures, andclaims. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details set forth in the following description,figures, and claims, but is capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed or carried out in various ways.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed incolor. Copies of this patent or patent application publication withcolor drawings will be provided by the Office upon request and paymentof the necessary fee.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a method for treating crabmeat with an agent that promotes protein binding and gelation accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows an alternate schematic representation of a method fortreating crab meat with an agent that promotes binding and gelationaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a system for treating crabmeat with an agent that promotes binding and gelation according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a method of conducting abusiness by making raw crab meat food products according to anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5, Panels A-E, shows examples of uncooked crab meat processed byapplication of protein binding and gelation technology to make a productof the present invention in accordance with alternate embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 shows examples of gelated crab meat cut from a cylindrical log inuncooked and cooked form in accordance with alternate embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7, Panels A-B, shows fillet shaped portions of crab meat cut from amonolithic form of uncooked gelated crab and cooked.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the term “gelated” describes the state of a meat productthat has a continuous structure with permanent macroscopic dimensionsover the useful product lifespan and solid-like rheological propertiesunder static to low shear stress conditions. Also, the term “gelation”describes the creation of a three-dimensional network of bonded proteinswhere polymer-polymer and polymer-solvent interaction is balanced.Gelation is an orderly aggregation of proteins that form athree-dimensional network. In gelation, polymer-polymer andpolymer-solvent interactions, as well as attractive and repulsive forcesmay be balanced such that a well-ordered matrix is formed.

As used herein, a protein binding agent (or a protein bonding agent) isa compound that promotes the binding of proteins to each other. Thebinding may comprise covalent bonds, protein crosslinking, and/ornon-covalent interactions such as hydrophobic interactions, ionicinteractions, or hydrogen bonds.

As used herein, protein binding for bonding) is the binding for bonding)of one protein to another. The binding may comprise covalent bonds,protein cross-linking, and/or non-covalent interactions such ashydrophobic interactions, ionic interactions, or hydrogen bonds.

As used herein, a “non-Newtonian fluid” is a fluid for which therelationship of shear stress and shear rate (F′/S) is not a constant.

As used herein, a material that is “pseudo-plastic” refers to a materialthat is substantially fluid and displays a decreasing viscosity with anincreasing shear rate.

As used herein, a material that is plastic behaves as a solid understatic conditions. A certain amount of force must be applied to thefluid before any flow is induced; this force is called the yield value.Once the yield value is exceeded and flow begins, plastic fluids maydisplay Newtonian, non-Newtonian, pseudo-plastic, or dilatant flowcharacteristics.

As used herein, when referring to uncooked crab, the term “crab meat” or“meat” is defined as including the mixture of edible protein mass andproteinaceous fluids extracted from the crab, as much of the crab bodyfluids will contain protein. Crab meat does not include the shell orinner organs.

As used herein, the term “substantially solid” refers to something thatholds its shape without an external support of the shape over time.Compositions that are substantially solid are not fluid, but retaintheir shape under static conditions (i.e., when not exposed to a shearforce). Substantially solid materials include gels and gelated foodproducts. For example, cooked egg white and formed gelatin aresubstantially solid.

As used herein, the term crab includes all crustaceans derived from theDecopada Infrorders Anomura crabs (e.g., King Crab and the like) orBrachyura crabs (e.g., Swimming Crabs and the like). Thus, the crab meatused in the methods, systems, and food products of the present inventionmay comprise meat from the blue crab (C. sapidus), Blue Swimming Crab(Portunus pelagicus), Horse Crab (Portunus trituberculatus), King Crab,Stone Crab, Dungeness crab, snow crab, tanner crab, coral crab, deep seared crab, three spotted swimming crab, mud crab (mangrove crab). Or,other types of crab meat may be used.

As used herein, the term “soft separation” or “low pressure separation”is a term used in the art and refers to the procedure of extractinguncooked meat from a crab using a machine or device that works on theprinciple of pressing or squeezing the meat from uncooked crab whilesimultaneously separating, the soft tissue and fluids from the hardparts of the crab.

The anatomical characteristics of crab, and the economic costsassociated with traditional processing of the meat from the crab specieswithin Anomura and Brachyura have created an opportunity to use proteinbinding technology to produce a novel gelated seafood product that doesnot mimic any currently available forms of the meat from these species.Prior applications of protein binding technology to meat, e.g., asreferred to in U.S. Pat. No. 4,741,906, incorporated by reference hereinin its entirety, have focused on meats that have traditionally beencommercially available in an uncooked state prior to the application ofa protein binder, such as beef, pork, poultry, and fish. Theapplications generally have in common a focus on the bonding of proteinsacross the surface area of solid portions of the meat. Such bonding ofmeat parts is commonly referred to as meat restructuring. The resultantproducts are provided to mimic or create a direct substitute for atraditional (untreated) cut or form of the meat product from meat parts.

Uncooked crab meat is significantly different from these other meats.Uncooked crab meat is generally a viscous mass of proteins and naturalfluids that can be described as a non-Newtonian pseudo-plastic fluidthat under static conditions has a fixed volume without a fixed shape.The ability to use protein bonding as a way to gelate this meat isunique from typical restructuring applications.

Using a protein binding agent as a protein aggregator to create agelated product that is comprised of solid and liquid proteins that havebeen gelated to form semi-rigid (e.g., substantially solid)three-dimensional network is a distinctly different application than theuse of protein binding technology for the restructuring of smaller meatparts into larger units. The gelated crab meat of the present inventionis therefore a new type of meat product. The ability to gelate raw crabmeat has not been previously recognized due at least in part to thefluid nature of the meat when it is extracted from the crab.

The lack of uncooked crab meat in the marketplace has severely limitedthe ways in which crab meat can be prepared such that the market forextracted uncooked crab meat has not been realized. In variousembodiments of the present invention, the ability to create a Relatedcrab meat provides a market for new and innovative food products. Asource of extracted uncooked crab meat that is gelated into a form thatcan be used for a variety of culinary applications (e.g., cut andotherwise handled with relative ease) provides for new uses for crabmeat on a global scale. Such applications may be employed by chefs, forthe creation of novel dishes, as well as for the use of crab in standardseafood dishes that have not previously been possible with crab. Also,in certain embodiments, the development of a market for gelated uncookedcrab meat may allow for a manufacturing method with reduced costs andhigher yields. In this way, the present invention may substantiallyincrease the value of the raw material used in the crab industry. Thenew market for crab meat may thereby positively enhance the crabindustry, which can be negatively impacted by under-utilization andwaste of the raw material due to inefficiencies associated with thetraditional crab processing methods. The ability to make uncooked crabmeat useable by providing a gelated raw crab meat product with multipleculinary applications may lower costs and increase utilization of thenatural resource. Thus, the present invention may increase utilizationof raw crab meat extracted by the mechanical method of soft-separation.This methods of the present invention may facilitate the use of muchless labor than traditional methods of processing cooked crab, and maincrease consumable meat yields from the crab by approximately 300% overyields associated with current processing methods.

Embodiments of the present invention comprise gelated crab meat, methodsand systems for making gelated crab meat, and food products derivedtherefrom. The present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways.

In one embodiment, the present invention may comprise a method for thepreparation of uncooked crab meat for use in food products. The methodmay comprise obtaining crab meat and mixing the crab meat with at leastone protein binding agent that promotes binding of proteins in the crabmeat. The proteins in the crab meat may bind either to other proteins inthe meat, or to proteins in the protein-binding agent.

In certain embodiments, the protein-binding agent promotes gelation ofthe crab meat. The crab meat generally comprises both solid meat andbody fluids that are rich in protein. Thus, in certain embodiments ofthe methods, systems and food products of the present invention, theprotein binding agent may also interact with proteins present as solidmeat, and with proteins present in the body fluids of the crab meat (andother solvent molecules), so as to form a three dimensional matrix orgel. The gel may therefore comprise both the solid and fluid proteins ofthe crab meat gelated into a substantially solid, form. Thus, in oneembodiment, incubation of the protein binding agent is performed suchthat a three-dimensional network of bonded proteins is formed wherepolymer-polymer and polymer-solvent interactions are balanced (e.g. inequilibrium) to provide a stable gelated material.

The protein binding agent may comprise one active ingredient, or maycomprise a plurality of active ingredients. For example, in oneembodiment, the agent may comprise fibrinogen. Alternatively, thebinding agent may comprise a mixture of fibrinogen and thrombin.Additionally or alternatively, the protein binding agent may comprise atransglutaminase (Tgase) enzyme. In yet other embodiments, non-crabproteins may be added. For example, in some embodiments, a caseinate maybe used as part of the protein binding agent. Or, whey protein may beused as pan of the protein binding, agent. In yet other embodiments,actomyosin (e.g., seafood actomyosin) may be used as pan of the proteinbinding agent. Or, potato starch, functional pork protein, or functionalsoy protein may be used as part of the protein binding agent.

In certain embodiments, the method may further comprise incubating, themeat and the at least one protein binding agent to promote gelationunder conditions to produce an uncooked meat product that comprises asubstantially solid form. In an embodiment, the substantially solid formcomprises a defined shape. For example, in one embodiment, the gelatedcrab meat may be formed into a cylindrical roll or a monolithic block.In certain embodiments, individual portions may be cut from the roll orthe monolithic block. Or, the gelated crab meat may be formed asindividual servings (i.e., gelated in the form of individual servingssuch as medallions, nuggets, patties and the like). Thus, in alternateembodiments, the substantially solid form is suitable for directculinary use or mass processing.

Embodiments of the present invention may also comprise a method for thecommercial utilization of raw crab meat. Thus, in certain embodiments,the present invention comprise to method for the preparation of uncookedcrab meat for commercial use. In certain embodiments, the method maycomprise the preparation of crab meat for use in food productscomprising the steps of obtaining uncooked meat from a plurality ofcrabs and mixing the uncooked meat with at least one agent that promotesprotein binding (i.e., a protein binding agent). The proteins in thecrab meat may bind either to other proteins in the meat, or to proteinsin the protein-binding agent. The method may also comprise incubatingthe meat and the at least one agent under conditions such that proteinsin the meat aggregates to the extent that gelation occurs. Thus, incertain embodiments, the protein binding agent may also interact withproteins present as solid meat, and with proteins present in the bodyfluids of the crab meat (and other solvent molecules), so as to form athree dimensional matrix, or gel. The gel may therefore comprise boththe solid and fluid proteins of the crab meat gelated into asubstantially solid form. Thus, in one embodiment, incubation of theprotein binding agent is performed such that a three-dimensional networkof bonded proteins is formed where polymer-polymer and polymer-solventinteractions are balanced (e.g. in equilibrium) to provide a stablegelated material.

The method may comprise incubating the meat and protein aggregatingagent under conditions to produce a meat product that comprisessubstantially solid form. In an embodiment, the substantially solid formcomprises a defined, shape. For example, in one embodiment, the gelatedcrab meat may be formed into a cylindrical roll or a monolithic block.In certain embodiments, individual portions may be cut from the roll orthe monolithic block. Or, the gelated crab meat may be formed asindividual servings such as medallions, nuggets, patties and the like.Thus, in alternate embodiments, the substantially solid form is suitablefor direct culinary use or mass processing.

Also, the method may comprise distributing the raw crab meat for sale.The crab meat may be distributed to a marketing unit or end user. Forexample, a marketing unit may comprise a seafood distributorship, aseafood store, or a retail food market (e.g., grocery stores orrestaurants). An end user may comprise a restaurant and/or a consumer.Thus, the method may comprise distributing the gelated crab meat to atleast one entity (e.g., seafood stores, seafood distributors, orconsumers) for selling or using the gelated crab meat either in bulkform, or as individual servings. In one embodiment, bulk form refers toan amount of gelated crab meat that comprises a plurality of servings.In an embodiment, a bulk form comprises an amount of gelated crab meatthat comprises a plurality of servings. In other embodiments, the methodmay comprise forming or cutting the gelated meat into desired semi-solidsemi-rigid shapes that can be packaged, processed and portioned as acohesive unit with a functional three dimensional structure.

The gelated raw crab meat made with the methods of the present inventionmay comprise an increase in viscosity as compared to ungelated crabmeat. In certain embodiments, the gelated crab meat may compriseincrease in viscosity of at least 100% (i.e., a 2-fold increase) ascompared to untreated crab meat when measured at a shear stress of 2revolutions per minute (RPM). In alternate embodiments, the gelated crabmeat may comprise increase in viscosity of at least 3-fold, or at least4-fold, or at least 5-fold, or at least 10-fold, or at least 15-fold, orat least 20-fold, or at least 25-fold, or at least 10-fold, or at least35-fold, or at least 40-fold, or at least 50-fold, or at least 60-foldas measured at a shear stress within the range of from about 2 to 20 RPM(e.g., 2, 4, 10, 20 RPM or other shear stress values within this range).Thus, in alternate embodiments, the gelated crab meat may comprise afold increase in viscosity ranging from about 2-60, or 2-50, or 2-30, or2-30, or 3-30, or 3-25, or 3-20, or 3-15, or 3-10, or 3-5, or 4-30, or4-25, or 4-20, or 4-15, or 4-10, or 4-5, or 5-30, or 5-25, or 5-20, or5-15, or 5-10 fold, or other values within these ranges, depending uponthe shear stress used. In certain embodiments, the shear stress mayrange from about 2 to 20 RPM (e.g., 2, 4, 10, 20 RPM or other shearstress values within this range).

Other embodiments of the present invention may comprise systems for thepreparation of uncooked crab meat for use as a food product. The systemmay comprise a station for mixing uncooked crab meat with at least oneprotein binding agent that promotes protein-protein binding. The proteinbinding agent may promote binding of proteins in the crab meat. Theproteins in the crab meat may bind either to other proteins in the meat(e.g., the solid meat and/or the proteinaceous body fluids), and/or toproteins in the protein-binding agent.

In certain embodiments, the protein-binding agent promotes gelation ofthe crab meat. Thus, the protein binding agent may also interact withproteins present as solid meat, and with proteins present in the bodyfluids of the crab meat (and other solvent molecules), so as to form athree dimensional matrix or gel. The gel may therefore comprise both thesolid and fluid proteins of the crab meat gelated into a substantiallysolid form. Thus, in one embodiment, incubation of the protein bindingagent is performed such that a three-dimensional network of bondedproteins is formed where polymer-polymer and polymer-solventinteractions are balanced (e.g. in equilibrium) to provide a stablegelated material.

The agent may comprise one active ingredient, or may comprise aplurality of active ingredients. For example, in one embodiment, theagent comprises a mixture of fibrinogen and thrombin. Alternatively, theprotein binding agent may comprise a transglutaminase (Tgase) enzyme. Inyet other embodiments, non-crab proteins may be added. For example, insome embodiments, a caseinate may be used as part of the protein bindingagent. Or, whey protein may be used as part of the protein bindingagent. In yet other embodiments, actomyosin (e.g., seafood actomyosin)may be used as part of the protein binding agent. Or, potato starch,functional pork protein, or functional soy protein may be used as partof the protein binding agent. In certain embodiments, the method mayfurther comprise incubating the meat and the agent to promote gelationunder conditions to produce an uncooked meat product that comprises adistinct shape and form.

Also, the system may comprise a station for incubating the meat and theprotein binding (i.e., gelation-promoting) agent or agents underconditions to produce a meat product that comprises a shape and thrillthat can be packaged, processed, and/or portioned as a cohesive unitwith a functional three dimensional structure. In certain embodiments,the system may also comprise a station for obtaining uncooked meat froma crab. In one embodiment, the meat may be extracted from the crabsusing a machine or device that works on the principle of pressing orsqueezing the meat from the crab, in certain embodiments, the crab meatmay be extracted using the technique referred to as soft separation orlow pressure separation.

The gelated raw crab meat made with the systems of the present inventionmay comprise an increase in viscosity as compared to ungelated crabmeat. In certain embodiments, the gelated crab meat may compriseincrease in viscosity of at least 100% (i.e. a 2-fold increase) ascompared to untreated crab meat when measured at a shear stress of 2revolutions per minute (RPM). In alternate embodiments, the gelated crabmeat may comprise increase in viscosity of at least 3-fold, or at least4-fold, or at least 5-fold, or at least 10-fold, or at least 15-fold, orat least 20-fold, or at least 25-fold, or at least 30-fold, or at least35-fold, or at least 40-fold, or at least 50-fold, or at least 60-foldas measured at a shear stress within the range of from about 2 to 20 RPM(e.g., 2, 4, 10, 20 RPM or other shear stress values within this range).Thus, in alternate embodiments, the gelated crab meat may comprise afold increase in viscosity ranging from about 2-60, or 2-50, or 2-30, or2-30, or 3-30, or 3-25, or 3-20, or 3-15, or 3-10, or 3-5, or 4-30, or4-25, or 4-20, or 4-15, or 4-10, or 4-5, or 5-30, or 5-25, or 5-20, or5-15, or 5-10 fold, or other values within these ranges, depending uponthe shear stress used. In certain embodiments, the shear stress mayrange from about 2 to 20 RPM (e.g., 2, 4, 10, 20 RPM or other shearstress values within this range).

In yet other embodiments, the present invention comprises articles ofmanufacture that comprise meat products made using the methods and thesystems of the present invention. In certain embodiments, the foodproduct may comprise crab meat that is gelated prior to cooking. Thefood product may comprise uncooked crab meat with at least one proteinbinding agent that promotes protein-protein binding. The proteins in thecrab meat may bind either to other proteins in the meat, or to proteinsin the protein-binding agent. For example, embodiments of the presentinvention comprise an article of manufacture comprising uncooked rawcrab meat and at least one protein binding agent that promotes proteinbinding, wherein the at least one protein binding agent is added in anamount such that proteins in the meat and/or in the protein binding,agent bind to each other to the extent that gelation of the crab meatoccurs to form a gelated crab meat product.

In certain embodiments, the protein-binding agent promotes gelation ofthe crab meat. Thus, in certain embodiments, the protein binding agentmay also interact with proteins present as solid meat, and with proteinspresent in the body fluids of the crab meat (and other solventmolecules), so as to form a three dimensional matrix or gel. The gel maytherefore comprise both the solid and fluid proteins of the crab meatgelated into a substantially solid form. Thus, in one embodiment,incubation of the protein binding agent is performed such that athree-dimensional network of bonded proteins is formed wherepolymer-polymer and polymer-solvent interactions are balanced (e.g. inequilibrium) to provide a stable gelated material.

The agent may comprise one active ingredient, or may comprise aplurality of active ingredients. For example, in one embodiment, theagent comprises a mixture of fibrinogen and thrombin. Alternatively, theprotein binding agent may comprise a transglutaminase (Tgase) enzyme. Inyet other embodiments, non-crab proteins may be added. For example, insome embodiments, a caseinate may be used as part of the protein bindingagent. Or, whey protein may be used as part of the protein bindingagent. In yet other embodiments, actomyosin (e.g., seafood actomyosin)may be used as part of the protein binding agent. Or, potato starch,functional pork protein, or functional soy protein may be used as partof the protein binding agent. In certain embodiments, the method mayfurther comprise incubating the meat and the agent to promote gelationunder conditions to produce an uncooked meat product that comprises adistinct shape and form.

The gelated raw crab meat may comprise an increase in viscosity ascompared to ungelated crab meat. In certain embodiments, the gelatedcrab meat may comprise increase in viscosity of at least 100% (i.e., a2-fold increase) as compared to untreated crab meat when measured at ashear stress of 2 revolutions per minute (RPM). In alternateembodiments, the gelated crab meat may comprise increase in viscosity ofat least 3-fold, or at least 4-fold, or at least 5-fold, or at least10-fold, or at least 15-fold, or at least 20-fold, or at least 25-fold,or at least 30-fold, or at least 35-fold, or at least 40-fold, or atleast 50-fold, or at least 60-fold as measured at a shear stress withinthe range of from about 2 to 20 RPM (e.g., 2, 4, 10, 20 RPM or othershear stress values within this range). Thus, in alternate embodiments,the gelated crab meat may comprise a fold increase in viscosity rangingfrom about 2-60, or 2-50, or 2-30, or 2-30, or 3-30, or 3-25, or 3-20,or 3-15, or 3-10, or 3-5, or 4-30, or 4-25, or 4-20, or 4- 15, or 4-10,or 4-5, or 5-30, or 5-25, or 5-20, or 5-15, or 5-10 fold, or othervalues within these ranges, depending upon the shear stress used. Incertain embodiments, the shear stress may range from about 2 to 20 RPM(e.g., 2, 4, 10, 20 RPM or other shear stress values within this range).

In certain embodiments, the gelated crab meat is provided in a varietyof forms that may comprise unique culinary applications for crab. Manyculinary applications that have not been regarded as practical for crabin its currently available forms (i.e., packaged cooked meat or wholecrab) ma be applicable for gelated crab meat. Thus, embodiments of thepresent invention comprise the generation eta crab meat product that maybe used for sautéing, grilling, poaching, frying, forming, making ofsausages, paddies, steaks, or for use as wrappers, and the like. Thecrab meat products may thus be provided as bulk crab meat products, suchas rolls or blocks of crab meat from which individual portions may besectioned. Or, the crab meat products may be formed as individualservings such as medallions, patties, fillets, strips, and the like.

In the methods, systems and food products of the present invention,gelation may be performed prior to cooking the meat in one embodiment,the non-gelated uncooked crab meat has the consistency of a viscouspseudo-plastic. Thus, the method may also comprise the step ofextracting uncooked meat from a crab. In an embodiment, soft separationor a similar procedure is used to obtain the raw (uncooked) crab meat.

Each of the methods, systems, and food products of the present inventionmay, in certain embodiments, comprise incubating the meat and the agentto promote gelation under conditions to produce an uncooked meat productthat comprises a substantially solid form. In certain embodiments, themeat and at least one protein binding agent are incubated underconditions to produce a meat product that comprises a defined shape. Inalternate embodiments, the form of the gelated crab meat is suitable forculinary use or mass processing and packaging in certain embodiments,the gelated crab meat comprises a monolithic unit that can be portionedinto unit sizes suitable for individual servings. For example, thedefined shape may comprise a cylindrical shape. Where the bulk gelatedcrab meat comprises a cylinder, the cylindrical shape may be cut intoslices by cutting the cylinder perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ofthe cylinder. Or, the gelated crab meat may be formed or gelated asindividual portions.

For each of the methods, systems or food products of the presentinvention, forming, the meat into a distinct shape may comprisethrilling or cutting the meat into desired semi-solid semi-rigid shapesthat can be packaged, processed and portioned as a cohesive unit with afunctional three dimensional structure. In one embodiment, the crab meatmay be formed into a substantially cylindrical shape (e.g., a roll orlog) from which individual servings may be cut. For example, medallionsmay be cut from cylinders baying a diameter of from about 1-3 inches,slices and/or patties may be cut from cylinders having a diameter fromabout 2.5 to 6 inches, and fillets may be cut from cylinders having adiameter of from about 5 to 10 inches.

Or, the gelated crab meat may be formed as individual portions. Forexample, the gelated crab may be formed in a container that is shaped tohold individual crab medallions or patties. In this way, the crab may beformed and packaged in a single step (or at a single station).

Various amounts of the protein binding agent may be added as required.In alternate embodiments, the protein bonding agent comprises about0.05-20%, or 0.1-10%, or 1-10%, or 4-9%, 5-8% of the meat product for afibrin-based agent or, 0.4-1.4%, 1.4-3%, 0.75-2.5% of a of the meatproduct for a Tgase-based agent. In alternate embodiments, the proteinbinding agent may comprise from about 0.05-25%, 0.05-20%, 1-20%,0.1-10%, 0.5-10%, 2-15%, 3-15%, 1-10%, 4-9%, 4-8%, 1-5%, 5-8%, or about6%, or 0.4-7%, 0.7-1.4%, 1-3%, 0.4-1.4%, 1.4-3%, 0.75-2.5%, 0.05-2.5%,0.75 to 3%, 1-2%, 2-3% or 3-5% depending upon the nature of the proteinbinding agent used.

In certain embodiments of the methods, systems and food products of thepresent invention, the meat may be cold pasteurized or treated withpreservatives prior to the addition of the agent that promotes proteinaggregation. This may be done either before or after addition of theprotein binding agent to the raw crab meat (e.g., before or aftergelation). For example FDA approved preservatives such as sulfurdioxide, potassium hydrogen sulfite, sodium EDTA, BHA, BHT, sodiumnitrate, and the like may be used. For example, in certain embodiments,the crab meat may be gelated, and then the packaged gelated crabsubjected to irradiation as a means of cold pasteurization.

In alternate embodiments of the methods, systems, and food products ofthe present invention, the crabs may comprise Decopada InfrordersAnomura crabs (e.g., King Crab and the like) or Brachyura crabs (e.g.,Swimming Crabs and the like). Thus, the crab meat used in the methods,systems, and food products of the present invention may comprise meatfrom the blue crab (C. sapidus). Blue Swimming Crab (Portunuspelagicus). Horse Crab (Portunus trituberculatus), King Crab, StoneCrab, Dungeness crab, snow crab, tanner crab, coral crab, deep sea redcrab, three spotted swimming crab, mud crab (mangrove crab). Inalternate embodiments, the crab may comprise a Portunus trituberculatus‘Gazami’ a king crab, a spiny spider crab, a swimming crab, a gazami, ora stone crab. Or, other types of crab meat may be used. The crab meatused for the methods, systems, and food products of the presentinvention may be derived from an entire organism or only a portion ofthe organism. In one embodiment, the portion of the organism comprises aclaw or a leg of the crab. In another embodiment the portion of theorganism may comprise the body, or a portion of the body of the crab.

An example method of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1.Thus, in an embodiment, the method 10 may comprise a first step 12 ofextracting meat from a crab. Also, in certain embodiments, the methodmay comprise treating or filtering the meat to reduce any possiblecontamination by pathogens and/or particulates 14. For example, themethod may comprise straining, filtering, adding preservatives and/orcold pasteurizing the meat.

The method may also comprise a step 16 for mixing the meat with at leastone agent that promotes gelation. The method may comprise obtaining crabmeat and mixing the crab meat with at least one protein binding agentthat promotes protein-protein binding. In an embodiment, the agentprovides for binding of proteins that are in the agent itself.Additionally, or alternatively, the protein binding agent may facilitatecross-linking of proteins in the crab meat. In an embodiment, theprotein-binding agent promotes elation of the crab meat. As describedherein, the agent may comprise one active ingredient, or may comprise aplurality of active ingredients. For example, in one embodiment, theagent comprises a mixture of fibrinogen and thrombin. Alternatively, theprotein binding agent may comprise a transglutaminase (Tgase) enzyme. Inyet other embodiments, non-crab proteins may be added such as caseinate,whey protein, actomyosin, or soy protein.

Once the meat has been treated, it may be shaped and set into a formthat allows for the gelled product to be portioned, packaged and used asa food product. For example, the meat may be shaped to form rolls thatmay be sliced into steaks or thin sheets. Thus, the method may compriseinserting the treated meat into a container to shape the final product18. Once the meat has been mixed with the protein binding, agent, and insome cases packaged into a processing container, it may be incubated fora period of time, and at an appropriate temperature with the at leastone agent to promote gelation 20. For example, the meat may be chilled(e.g., brought to a temperature of about 34 to 44 degrees Fahrenheit or1 to 7 degrees Celsius) and mixed thoroughly with the protein bindingagent. In an embodiment, the meat may be chilled to a temperature ofless than 10° C. For example, in alternate embodiments, the meat may bechilled to a temperature of from about 1° C. to 7° C., 1° C. to 5° C.,or from about 2° C. to 4° C. Where the processed meat requires aspecific shape, the treated meat may be stuffed into containers thatwill mold the final product as desired. The meat and the protein bindingagent may be incubated for a timed and at a temperature (e.g., in acooler at 2° C. to 4° C.) to promote gelation. The meat may be incubatedfor a period sufficient to induce gelation. In alternate embodiments,the meat may be incubated with the gelation agent for about 30 minutes,or about 1 hour, or about 2 hours, or about 3 hours, or about 4 hours,or about 5 hours, or about six hours. In one embodiment, the meat may beincubated with the gelation agent for about 6 to 8 hours. For example,the meat may be incubated overnight at 2-4° C. in the presence of theprotein binding agent. The meat may be removed from its mold to bestored or stored in its mold indefinitely. In some cases the mold mayalso serve as packaging. Also in some cases the molding may be an ediblepart of the product.

Once the meat has been incubated under conditions that are sufficientfor gelation to occur, the meat may then be processed in various waysincluding being cut into desired shapes and sizes or otherwiseportioned, frozen, refrigerated, cooked and/or packaged 22.

FIG. 2 shows an alternate embodiment of a method 30 for producinggelated crab meat food products of the present invention. Thus, as shownin FIG. 2, once the crabs have been caught, they may be stored at anappropriate temperature per industry standards 32 (e.g., frozen or keptalive in a refrigerated, environment, on ice, or in water). Next, thecarapace (back shell) of the crab may be removed by hand, or by machine34. The crab parts may next be mechanically processed to extract orisolate the raw meat from the skeletal system 36. For example, in oneembodiment, raw crab meat is extracted from the crab using a softseparator or similar mechanism.

The crab meat may then optionally be treated or strained to remove anypathogens and/or particulates 38. In an embodiment, the meat may be coldpasteurized or irradiated to remove pathogens. Additionally oralternatively, the crab meat may be treated with additives such as salt,preservatives, flavorings etc. For example, preservatives may be addedto inhibit pathogen growth or as an antioxidant. Flavoring and salt maybe added to produce a desired flavor profile. The raw crab meat may thenbe stored in the cold (e.g., in a cooler or cool room) or frozen untilfurther processing.

Once the amount of meat that is needed for processing as the foodproduct(s) of interest has been obtained, the raw meat may be treatedwith an agent or agents that promotes protein-protein binding andgelation of the meat. The meat may be mixed, i.e., either by hand orusing an automated mixer, with the protein binding agent usingproportions required to promote gelation as described herein. During themixing of the raw meat with the protein binding agent(s), additives arenot required, but may be added. Example additives may includepreservatives and/or flavorings to enhance the taste and maintain thefreshness of the meat. Also, additives may include salts, fillers,buffers, or other compounds that may support the gelation method. Forexample the addition of salts with sodium, calcium or potassium cationsmay act as preservatives as well as a buffer against changes in pH basedon the associated anion. Also, other animal or vegetable proteins andextracts such fish meat or extract, shellfish meat or extract,crustacean meat or extract, whey, soy and dairy may be added to form amix with the gelated crab protein to act as fillers or to change flavorand texture profiles.

After mixing the crab meat with the protein binding agent, the meat maybe formed during setting by insertion into a wrapping, casing, mold orother type of container that will set the meat in the final shape thatis desired. For example, the meat may be quad into a tube, if the finalproduct is to be cylindrical in shape. The meat may then be incubated inthe container under conditions that allow for a gel with a definiteshape to form through a reaction with the protein bonding agent. Oncethe meat has gelled to form the final shape, the wrapping or containermay be removed and the meat further processed as desired. Thus, thegelled meat may be portioned, cooked or frozen as desired. For example,in an embodiment, the gelled meat may be sliced into thin slices, orchopped to form nuggets, medallions, steaks, patties, and the like.

A variety of molds, casings and packaging may be used to shape the meat.Examples may include casings certified for use in the food industry andmay be artificial or natural casings, permeable or impermeable casings.These casing may be removed during the production process or used aspackaging. Molds may be made from plastic, metal, paper, glass, ceramic,or other material safe for use in the food industry. Molds may takevarious shapes and can be used to produce small individual servings orlarger forms that are liner portioned. Molds ma be removed during theproduction process or used as packaging. Molds, casings and packagingsmay constitute an edible part of the product. For example, the crab maybe cast in a mold, wrap or casing made from vegetable, fish, pork, beef,poultry, crystallized sugar or salt, dough, grains, and other ediblesubstances.

In certain embodiments, the meat may be cold pasteurized or irradiatedto remove pathogens after it has been incubated with the protein bindingagent 43. For example, the meat may be irradiated after it has beenpackaged into a container for shipping. Additionally or alternatively,the crab meat may be treated with additives such as salt, preservatives,flavorings etc. For example, preservatives may be added to inhibitpathogen growth or as an antioxidant. Flavoring and salt may be added toproduce a desired flavor profile. The raw crab meat may then be storedin the cold (e.g., in a cooler or cool room) or frozen in preparationfor distribution to an end user 44.

A variety of agents to promote protein-protein binding and gelation maybe used for the methods and systems of the present invention, and in thefood products made with the methods and systems of the presentinvention. In an embodiment, the agent to promote gelation may comprisefibrinogen. In one embodiment, the agent may comprise a mixture ofanimal fibrinogen and thrombin as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,741,906.For example, the agent may comprise the commercially available productsFIBRIMEX® and/or Plasma Powder FG commercially available from FXTechnology & Products, LLC (Fremont, Nebr.) and Harimex (Loenen,Netherlands). FIBRIMEX® and Plasma Powder FG allow for the binding ofraw meat materials to form larger products by the fibrin-mediatedcross-linking of proteins catalyzed by fibrinogen and thrombin. Thus, inalternate embodiments, either FIBRIMEX® and/or Plasma Powder FG may beused as a protein binding agent to promote the gelation of uncooked crabmeat.

In certain embodiments, the FIBRIMEX® may be reconstituted asrecommended by the manufacturer and mixed with the raw meat. The meatmay be chilled and mixed thoroughly with the protein binding agent. Inan embodiment, the meat may be chilled to a temperature of less than 10°C. For example, the meat may be chilled to a temperature of about 34 to44 degrees Fahrenheit (i.e., 1 to 7 degrees Celsius). For example, inalternate embodiments, the meat may be chilled to a temperature of fromabout 1° C. to 7° C., 1° C. to 5° C. or from about 2° C. to 4° C. Wherethe processed meat requires a specific shape, the treated meat (e.g.,raw meat mixed with FIBRIMEX®) may be stuffed into containers that willmold the final product as desired. The meat and FIBRIMEX® may beincubated for a time and at a temperature (e.g., in a cooler at 2° C. to4° C.) to promote gelation. The meat may be incubated for a periodsufficient to induce protein binding and/or gelation. In alternateembodiments, the meat may be incubated with the at least one proteinbinding agent for about 30 minutes, or about 1 hour, or about 2 hours,or about 3 hours, or about 4 hours, or about 5 hours, or about sixhours. In one embodiment, the meat may be incubated with the at leastone protein binding agent for about 6 to 8 hours. However, gelation maybe visible within 30 minutes. For example, the meat may be incubatedovernight at 2-4° C. in the presence of the FIBRIMEX®. The amount of thegelation agent may be varied depending on the state of the raw meat(e.g., moisture content, temperature, type of crab meat being used), andthe processing parameters (e.g., time and temperature of incubation;amount of meat being processed). For example, in alternate embodiments.FIBRIMEX® may be used in a range of from 0.05-20%, 0.1-10%, or from1-10%, or from 4-9%, or from 5-8% or about 6% of the mixture (i.e., crabmeat and FIBRIMEX®) composition. Ranges within these ranges may also beused.

In an alternate embodiment, products such as Plasma Powder FG may beused. Plasma Powder FG is a powder containing an increased fibrinogenconcentration and is produced from beef or porcine plasma. In anembodiment, Plasma Powder FG may be mixed into the uncooked crab meat asa powder to promote gelation. The treated meat may then be inserted intoa container (e.g., casing or mold) providing the desired shape of themeat after gelation. The meat may then be incubated under conditions topromote gelation. For example, in certain embodiments, the meat may bebrought to a temperature of about 34 to 44 degrees Fahrenheit or 1 to 7degrees Celsius. In alternate embodiments, the meat may be chilled to atemperature of less than 10° C. For example, in one embodiment, the meatmay be chilled to a temperature of from about 1° C. to 7° C., 1° C. to5° C., or from about 2° C. to 4° C. The meat may be incubated for aperiod sufficient to induce protein binding and/or gelation. Inalternate embodiments, the meat may be incubated with the at least oneprotein binding agent for about 30 minutes, or about 1 hour, or about 2hours, or about 3 hours, or about 4 hours, or about 5 hours, or aboutsix hours. In one embodiment, the meat may be incubated with the atleast one protein binding agent for about 6 to 8 hours. For example, themeat may be incubated overnight at 2-4° C. in the presence of the PlasmaPowder FG. In an embodiment, the meat is incubated at 0-4° C. for atleast 6 hours. At this point, the protein bonding reaction may becomplete, such that the meat may be further processed (e.g., sliced,diced, made into nuggets) prior to freezing, cooking and/or packaging.

For the application of Plasma Powder FG as a liquid, the powder may beblended with the correct amount of ice water as per the manufacturer'sinstructions and mixed with the raw meat. In one embodiment, about 4parts ice/water per part Plasma Powder FG powder is used. Again, in anembodiment, the treated meat may then be inserted into a container(e.g., casing or mold) providing the desired shape of the meat aftergelation. The meat may then be incubated under conditions to promotegelation (e.g., 0-4° C. for at least 6 hours). At this point, theprotein binding reaction may be complete, such that the meat may befurther processed (e.g., sliced, diced, made into nuggets) prior tofreezing, cooking and/or packaging. In alternate embodiments, the Plasmapowder FG is used in a range of from 0.05-5%, 0.1-3%, or from 1-3%, orfrom 1-2%, or from 2-3%, or from 0.3-2%, or from 0.3-1%, or from0.4-0.7%, or from 0.7% to 1.4%, of total product composition. Rangeswithin these ranges may also be used.

In yet another embodiment, a protein binding agent comprising bacterialtransglutaminase (Tgase) may be adapted to promote gelation. In anembodiment, the Tgase may comprise a caseinate, maltodextrin, hydrolyzedmilk protein or other ingredients as aggregator matrix substrates. Also,in an embodiment, the Tgase-based protein binding agent may compriseseafood actomyosin as an aggregator matrix substrate. In an embodiment,the Tgase/caseinate (and optionally, maltodextrin, hydrolyzed milkprotein, gelatin, whey protein and/or actomyosin) may be blended withice water and mixed with the raw meat. Again, in an embodiment, thetreated meat may then be inserted into a container (e.g., casing ormold) providing the desired shape of the meat after gelation. The meatmay then be incubated under conditions to promote protein binding and/orgelation. In certain embodiments, the meat may be brought to atemperature of about 34 to 4.4 degrees Fahrenheit or 1 to 7 degreesCelsius. For example, in alternate embodiments, the meat may be chilledto a temperature of less than 10° C. For example, in alternateembodiments, the meat may be chilled to a temperature of from about 1°C. to 7° C., 1° C. to 5° C., or from about 2° C. to 4° C. The meat maybe incubated for a period sufficient to induce protein binding and/orgelation. In alternate embodiments, the meat may be incubated with theprotein binding agent for about 30 minutes, or about 1 hour, or about 2hours, or about 3 hours, or about 4 hours, or about 5 hours, or aboutsix hours, in one embodiment, the meat may be incubated with the proteinbinding agent for about 6 to 8 hours. In one embodiment, the meat may beincubated with the Tgase-based binding agent (and any additionalbinding, agents) overnight. In an embodiment, the meat is incubated at0-4° C. for at least 6 hours. At this point, the protein bindingreaction may be complete, such that the meat may be further processed(e.g., sliced, diced, made into nuggets) prior to freezing, cookingand/or packaging.

In alternate embodiments, the Tgase-based protein binding agent is usedin a range of from 0.5-20%, 0.1-10%, 0.75% to 3%, 1 to 2%, or from 2-3%,or from 3-5% of total product composition. In alternate embodiments, theTgase enzyme may be used in amounts ranging from 100-3000 E/Kg meat, orfrom 200-2000 EU/kg meat, or from 300-1,500 EU/kg meat, or from400-1,000 EU/kg meat, or from 500-900 EU/kg meat. In an embodiment about500-700 EU/kg meat of Tgase is used. Use of the Tgase may require higherlevels of protein (about 15% or more). Ranges within these ranges mayalso be used.

In some embodiments, other protein binding agents may used to inducegelation of the raw crab meat to make the food products of the presentinvention. Thus, in alternate embodiments, protein binding and/orgelation agents such as whey protein concentrate (WPC), potato starch(PS), functional pork protein (FPP), and/or functional soy proteinconcentrate (FSPC) may be used. These additional protein binding agentsmay be used in a range of from 0.05-25%, 1-20%, or from 2-15%, or from3-15% of total product composition. Ranges within these ranges may alsobe used.

In yet another embodiment the protein binding agent comprising bacterialtransglutaminase (Tgase) may be a product available from Ajinomoto Inc,or its subsidiaries. These products may include any one or combinationof the Tgase products included in the Activa product line and may beused in concentrations ranging from 0.5-20%, 0.1-10%, 0.75% to 3%, 1 to2% or from 2-3%, or from 3-5% of total product composition. Activa maybe used as a slurry by pre-hydrating the powder at about 4 to 4.5 timesits weight in water or as a dry powder. The Activa slurry or dry powderis mixed into the uncooked crab meat and processed in accordance withthe embodiment describing the use of (Tgase).

Other embodiments of the present invention may comprise systems for thepreparation of uncooked crab meat for use in food products. An examplesystem of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 3. Thus, in anembodiment, the system 50 may comprise a station 51 for obtaininguncooked meat from a crab. This may be done by running the crab or itsparts through a machine that work as a soft separator as is pre-defined.The meat is then collected from the machine in and stored in a foodgrade plastic, metal, or glass container for storage or use in the nextstep.

Also, in certain embodiments, the system may comprise a station forfiltering, straining, or treating the meat to reduce any possiblecontamination by pathogens and/or particulates 52. For example, the meatmay be spread across a metal or polymer screen having a mesh size of 1to 10 mm and subsequently scraped, pushed, pulled or drawn through thescreen effectively separating the meat from any larger particles left inthe meat after soft separation. Additionally or alternatively, thesystem may comprise a station to cold pasteurize the meat. Coldpasteurization may be done by irradiation of the raw crab meat. In oneembodiment, gamma rays are used. Or, electron beams may be used. Or,X-rays may be used, in one embodiment, this process would generally beconducted in accordance with procedures determined by the manufacture ofthe irradiation equipment and governmental regulations. In certainembodiments, irradiation before gelation and irradiation after gelationmay have different levels of effectiveness. For example, irradiation ofthe gelled product in a sealed container (i.e., cold pasteurization) maydo more to increase shelf life than irradiation prior to being placed ina sealed container.

The system may also comprise a station 53 for mixing the meat with atleast one agent that promotes protein binding and gelation. Once themeat has been treated, it may be shaped into a form that allows for useas a finished food product or for further processing includingportioning, freezing, refrigerating, cooking and packaging. For example,the meat may be shaped to form rolls that may be processed into nuggets,patties or fillets, or may be sliced into thin sheets (e.g., for use asluncheon meat or pockets). Thus, the system may comprise a station forinserting the treated meat into a container to shape the final product54. Cold pasteurization (e.g., irradiation of the product in the sealedcontainer or packaging) may also be performed at this point. Once themeat has been mixed with the protein binding agent, and in some casespackaged into a processing container, it may be processed at a stationfor incubating the meat and the at least one agent to promote gelation55.

Once the meat has been incubated under conditions that are sufficientfor gelation to occur, the meat may then be sent to a station(s) forprocessing, e.g., slicing and/or packaging 56. Cold pasteurization(e.g., irradiation of the product in the sealed container or packaging)may also be performed after the meat has been packaged. Also, in certainembodiments, the meat may be packaged into the final container uponaddition of the protein binding agent, irradiated in that containerprior to incubation. Thus, it will be understood that some of thestations as depicted in FIG. 3 may be combined as a single station.

Also, as described herein, the present invention may comprise a methodof commercializing the preparation and sale of raw crab meat. FIG. 4shows an embodiment of such a method 60. For example, in one embodiment,the method may comprise obtaining uncooked meat from a plurality ofcrabs 62. Also, the method may comprise mixing the uncooked meat with atleast one agent that promotes protein binding and gelation 64. Proteinbinding agents such as those described herein may be used.

The method may also include incubating the meat and the at least oneprotein binding agent such that the proteins in the binding agent and/orin the meat bind to each other to the extent that gelation occurs. In anembodiment, the meat may be gelled to form distinct shapes, such as amonolithic block or a cylinder 66. In this way, the gelled crab meat maybe shaped for sale as a bulk product that may be further processed toprovide individual servings. Or, the gelled crab meat may be gelated andpackaged as individual servings, or as a collection of individualservings. For example, the gelled crab meat may be cut into patties, andmultiple patties packaged as a food product. Also, the gelled crab meatmay be irradiated at this point to improve the shelf life 67.

The method may also include distributing the gelated crab meat to atleast one entity for selling the gelated crab meat either in bulk form,or as individual servings 68. The gelated crab meat may be distributedrefrigerated, on ice, or frozen for long-term storage and use.

The present invention also comprises seafood products made using themethods and systems of the invention. Thus, in one embodiment, thepresent invention may comprise a processed meat product comprising rawcrab meat mixed with at least one protein binding agent. In anembodiment, a portion of the protein binding agent remains as part ofthe food product.

The protein binding agent may comprise the protein binding agents asdescribed herein. Thus, in an embodiment, the at least one proteinbinding agent comprises fibrinogen. Alternatively or additionally, theat least one protein binding agent may comprise thrombin. Generally, thethrombin comprises about 1/40, or 1/20, or 1/10, or ⅕ of the fibrinogen.In an embodiment, the thrombin may comprise about 1/20 of thefibrinogen. In alternate embodiments, the fibrinogen and thrombin may(in combination) comprise from 1-20%, 1-10%, or from 2-8%, or from 1-5%or from 4-8% by weight of the weight of the crab meat product.

In alternate embodiments, the Plasma Powder FG based protein binder maycomprise from 0.1-10%, or from 0.4-0.7% or from 0.7-1.4% or 1-3%, 1 to2% or from 2-3% or from 3-5% (by weight) of the crab meat product.

The protein binding agent may, in other embodiments, comprise atransglutaminase (Tgase), and/or a caseinate or other additionalnon-crab meat proteins. In alternate embodiments, the Tgase-basedprotein binder may comprise from 0.1-10%, or from 0.75 to 3%, 1 to 2% orfrom 2-3% or from 3-5% (by weight) of the crab meat product.

Also, in certain embodiments, whey protein or actomyosin may be used, inother embodiments, the protein binding agent may comprise at least oneof potato starch, functional pork protein, or functional soy proteinconcentrate. In alternate embodiments, 0.05-25%, 1-20%, or from 2-15%,or from 3-15% of total product composition may comprise at least one ofthese other protein binding agents.

Thus, the protein binding agent may comprise from about 0.05-25%,0.05-20%, 1-20%, 0.1-10%, 0.5-10%, 2-15%, 3-15%, 1-10%, 4-9%, 4-8%,1-5%, 5-8%, or about 6%, or 0.4-7%, 0.7-1.4%, 1-3%, 0.4-1.4%, 1.4-3%,0.75-2.5%, 0.05-25%, 0.75 to 3%, 1-2%, 2-3% or 3-5% depending upon thenature of the protein binding agent used.

Embodiments of the present invention may comprise gelated threedimensional semi-rigid semi-solid forms of raw crab meat such aspatties, steaks, fillets, nuggets medallions, thin workable sheets,portionable monolithic forms, stuffable pouches and the like. FIG. 5shows examples of raw crab meat that has been gelled with a proteinbinding agent to make uncooked patties. For example, FIG. 5, Panel Ashows raw crab meat patties 72 that have been cut from a roll 74 ofuncooked crab meat that was made using an embodiment of the methods ofthe present invention. The gelated crab meat shown in FIGS. 5A and 5Bmay be made by mixing raw crab meat with 5% FIBRIMEX® and allowing themixture to incubate at 4° C. for 8 hours. The mixture may be shaped toform a roll by stuffing the mixture into a cylindrical container aftermixing the uncooked crab meat with the FIBRIMEX®. In an embodiment, thegelated crab meat attains a consistency similar to gelatin. Prior toaddition of the protein binding agents, the meat generally has aconsistency similar to thick applesauce. In certain embodiments, thegelated meat maintains its shape as a roll when left at room temperaturefor several hours to several days, and can be cut into patties (e.g.,crab medallions).

In alternate embodiments, various amounts of the protein binding agentmay be used, depending upon the fluidity of the crab meat beingprocessed, the protein binding agent being used, the amount of salt inthe meat, the moisture content of the meat, the pH of the meat, the timeand temperature used for the incubation, the age of the meat, and otherfactors. In an embodiment, gelated crab meat may be made by mixing rawcrab meat with 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 5%, or 10% FIBRIMEX® as indicated, andallowing the mixture to incubate at 4° C. for 6 hours (FIG. 5C). Thus,in certain embodiments, a range of the protein binding agent may beused. In certain embodiments, for a given sample batch of meat of thesame age, and moisture content, an increase in rigidity of the gelledproduct is positively correlated to the amount of protein binding agentused.

Crab meat is unlike many other meats in that it has an almost liquidconsistency in its unprocessed state. In an embodiment, the crab meathas a consistency similar to applesauce prior to addition of the proteinbinding agent(s). FIG. 5D shows raw crab meat before 76 and afterprocessing 78 with a protein binding agent. The crab meat in FIG. 5D wasgelated by incubating with 6% of FIBRIMEX® for 8 hours at 4° C. Thus, inan embodiment, prior to processing the raw crab meat is almost liquid inconsistency, whereas after processing the raw crab meat is substantiallysolid and has a defined cylindrical shape.

The gelated uncooked crab meat may be prepared in any number of waystypical of preparing fish or seafood. In one embodiment, the gelatedcrab meat may be sautéed 79 (FIG. 5E). In various embodiments of themethods, systems and food products of the present invention, the gelatedcrab meat maintains its shape during cooking. For example, the patties(e.g., medallions) formed by the addition of a protein binding agent mayretain their form upon grilling, frying, and/or baking to be served as aunique food product. Thus, as shown in FIG. 6, there may be littleshrinkage or change of shape when uncooked crab meat medallions weresautéed for various amounts of time. Shown in FIG. 6 are gelled,uncooked crab meat medallions sliced from a cylinder and completelythawed (i.e., 2 hours at room temperature) 92; a portion of the samegelled crab, slightly “undercooked” (4 minute cook time) 93; a portionof the same gelled crab, cooked for 5 minutes (preferred cook time) 94;and a portion of the same gelled crab, slightly “overcooked” 95. Incertain embodiments, even overcooking of the crab meat does notsignificantly reduce the amount of moisture or change the shape of thefood product.

The processed crab meat may be formed into a variety of shapes. In anembodiment, gelated crab meat may be formed in a pint sized container(i.e., about 3-5 inches in diameter) (FIG. 7). Once the crab meat hasgelled, slices may be cut, thereby providing a portion similar to afillet of meat or fish 96 (FIG. 7A). The fillet may then be fried(sautéed), grilled or baked 97 (FIG. 7B) to provide a unique foodproduct—a crab meat fillet.

Certain embodiments of the present invention may comprise certainadvantages. For example, in one embodiment, the present invention mayprovide uncooked crab meat in a form that may be processed into foodproducts of desired shape. Also, in certain embodiments, the processedmeat products of the present invention increase the culinaryapplications for the meat. For example, the meat may be prepared as amedallion for appetizers, or as a patty for sandwiches, or as a fillet.

As another advantage, in certain embodiments, the processed meatproducts of the present invention may exhibit very little to no loss ofthe meat upon cooking. This can allow for consistency in the preparationof recipes using the crab meat products.

Also, in certain embodiments, the processed meat products may displaythe same or similar texture and/or juiciness as non-processed meatproducts when served raw, or upon cooking. Additionally, in certainembodiments, the processed meat products may display the same or similartaste as non-processed meat products when eaten raw, or upon cooking.

Certain embodiments of the invention may comprise certain economicadvantages. For example, in an embodiment the product may provide aplurality of new food products and thereby expand the market for crabmeat to include uncooked crab meat. Also, in certain embodiments, thesystem may materially increase the yields associated with processingcrabs. In certain embodiments, the system may materially increase theability to utilize crabs as a natural resource.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Preparation of Crab Meat Rolls and Patties Derivedfrom Such Rolls

The methods may be used to make gelated three dimensional semi-rigidsemi-solid forms such as patties, steaks, fillets, nuggets, medallions,thin workable sheets (e.g., stuffable pouches), monolithic forms thatmay be subdivided into individual portions, and the like. FIG. 5 showsexamples of raw crab meat that have been gelled with a protein bondingagent to make uncooked patties. For example. FIG. 5, Panels A, B, and C,shows raw crab meat that has been treated with a protein bonding agentFIBRIMEX® and shaped to form a roll. The gelated crab meat shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B was made by mixing raw crab meat with 6% FIBRIMEX® andallowing the mixture to incubate at 4° C. for 8 hours. The mixture wasshaped to form a roll by hand-mixing raw crab meat that was extractedusing a soft separator with 6% by weight FIBRIMEX® and then hand-fillinga tube-shaped plastic casing with the mixture within 5 minutes ofmixing. The casing was then clamped shut and placed in a refrigeratedenvironment to incubate. After incubation, the log (gelated crab-filledcasing) was frozen at −10 degrees F. Later, the log was thawed and thecasing removed, at which time medallions were cut from the log ancooked. It was found that the gelated crab meat displayed a consistencysimilar to gelatin. The meat maintained its shape as a roll when left atroom temperature, and could be cut into patties (e.g., crab medallions).

FIG. 5C shows an experiment where gelated crab meat was made by mixingraw crab meat with 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 5%, or 10% FIBRIMEX® as indicated,and allowing the mixture to incubate at 4° C. for 6 hours, it was foundthat in general, the rigidity of gelled samples increased with anincrease in the percentage of protein binder used.

FIG. 5D shows raw crab meat before 76 and after processing 78 with aprotein bonding agent. The crab meat in FIG. 5D was gelated byincubating with 8% of FIBRIMEX® for 8 hours at 4° C. Thus, it can beseen that prior to processing the raw crab meat is almost liquid inconsistency, whereas after processing the raw crab meat has a definedcylindrical shape.

FIG. 5E shows crab meat medallions made as described above for FIGS. 5Aand 5B being sautéed. It can be seen that the gelated crab meat holds itshape when heated or cooked.

Example 2 Stability of Treated Crab Meat to Cooking and Other CulinaryPreparation

FIG. 6 shows round portions cut from as gelated cylinder at varyingstages of preparation. The gelated crab meat shown in FIG. 6 was made bymixing raw crab meat with 5% FIBRIMEX® and allowing the mixture toincubate at 4° C. for 6 hours. The mixture was shaped to form a roll byhand-mixing raw crab meat that was extracted using a soft separator in aplastic tub with 5% by weight FIBRIMEX® and then hand-filling a plasticcasing with the mixture within 5 minutes of mixing. The casing was thenclamped shut and placed in a refrigerated environment to incubate. Afterincubation the log (gelated crab-filled casing) was frozen at −10degrees F. Later the log was thawed and the casing removed, at whichtime medallions were cut from the log an cooked. It was found that thegelated crab meat maintained its shape during cooking. Thus, as shown inFIG. 6, there was little shrinkage or change of shape when uncooked crabmeat medallions were sautéed for various amounts of time. Shown in FIG.6 are gelled, uncooked crab meat medallions sliced from a cylinder andcompletely thawed (i.e., 2 hours at room temperature) 92; a portion ofthe same gelled crab, slightly “undercooked” (4 minute cook time) 93; aportion of the same gelled crab, cooked for 5 minutes (preferred cooktime) 94; and a portion of the same gelled crab, slightly “overcooked”95. It can be seen that even overcooking of the crab meat does notsignificantly reduce the amount of moisture or change the shape of thefood product. Thus, the patties (e.g., medallions) formed by theaddition of a protein binding agent retained their form (even afterover-cooking) and could be served as a unique food product.

Example 3 Crab Meat Fillets

FIG. 7A shows gelated crab meat gelled to a monolithic form in apint-sized container. The gelated crab meat shown in FIG. 7A was made bymixing raw crab meat with 7% FIBRIMEX® and allowing the mixture toincubate at 4° C. for 8 hours. The extracted raw crab meat was mixedwith 7% FIBRIMEX by weight in a plastic pint size container havingdimensions of about a 4 inch top diameter, 3.5 inch bottom diameter anda height of about 3 inches. After mixing the container served as a moldfor the gelation process and was incubated for 8 hours at 4 degreesCelsius. Once the meat had gelled, it was removed from the contained anda fillet portion was sectioned off of the formed gelated meat by knife.FIG. 7B shows the fillet after being sautéed. Thus, the experiment showsan example of a never-before described food product, a crab meat fillet.

Example 4 Viscosity Measurement of Gelated Raw Crab

Experiments were performed to quantify the nature of the gelation of theraw crab meat. In these experiments, gelated crab meat that had beenmade essentially as described in Example 1 (raw crab meat was incubatedwith various amounts of FIBRIMEX for at least 8 hours at 4° C.). Thegelated crab was then frozen and stored for a period of time. In thisexperiment, raw crab meat from various parts of the crab, and that hadbeen stored frozen for various periods of time was analyzed for thechange in viscosity upon gelation. Sample 1 corresponds to crab meatthat was obtained from the body of a crab, and then was stored frozenfor about 6 months; Sample 2 corresponds to corresponds to crab meatobtained from the body of a crab and then stored frozen for about 17months; Samples 3 and 4 corresponds to two different samples of crabmeat that was obtained from the claws of a crab, and then stored frozenfor about 6 months. For each sample (1, 2, 3 or 4). A corresponds to thethawed and untreated sample, and B correspond to the sample that wasgelated with the indicated amounts of FIBRIMEX®. Samples were incubatedwith the FIBRIMEX® for 8 hours at 4° C. Results of the analysis ofchanges in viscosity (in centipoise, cP) as measured at increasinglevels of sheer stress (RPM) using a Dial Rading Viscometer (BrookfieldEngineering, Model RVF, Serial #69050) are shown in Table 1. It wasfound that under static conditions, the untreated raw crab meatdisplayed pseudo-plastic characteristics (i.e., behaved as a fluid),whereas the gelated crab meat displayed plastic characteristics (i.e.,behaved as a substantially solid material). It can be seen that theincrease in viscosity ranged from about 16 to 37 fold for sample 1; formabout 1.2 to 2.7 fold for sample 2; from about 2.2 to 5.2 fold forsample 3; and from about 1.5 to 4.2 fold for sample 4. Based on theresults, both the treated and untreated crab meat displayednon-Newtonian characteristics, in that the ratio of shear stress andshear rate (F′/S) was not a constant.

Additionally, as shown by comparing samples 3 and 4, where claw meatobtained from the same sample was treated with different amounts of thebinding agent, there appeared to be a greater increase in viscosity uponusing more of the protein binding agent (FIBRIMEX®).

It was also found that the meat that had been stored frozen for a longerperiod of time displayed less change upon gelation, indicating that theintegrity of the proteins found in the raw crab meat (at least for thepurposes of gelation) may be decrease over long, periods in storage. Theincrease in viscosity ranged from about 16 to 37 fold for the treatedbody meat of sample 1, whereas the older body meat in sample 2 displayeda higher base level viscosity (perhaps due to protein denaturation) andless relative change in viscosity for each of the shear stress levelstested.

TABLE 1 Viscosity Testing of Gelated Raw Crab Viscosity ViscosityViscosity Viscosity (centipoise) (centipoise) (centipoise) (centipoise)Viscosity Sample # Sample @ Shear @ Shear @ Shear @ Shear (centipoise) @A-pre gelation Temp Stress Stress Stress Stress Shear Stress B-postgelation Fahrenheit Static 2 RPM 4 RPM 10 RPM 20 RPM 1-A Body 45 degreesPsuedo-  42,000 cP  22,500 cP 13,800 cP 10,200 cP No Additive plastic1-B Body 45 degrees Plastic 1,580,000 cP   730,000 cP 284,000 cP 160,000 cP  7% Fibrin 2-A Body 46 degrees Pseudo- 215,000 cP 127,000 cP64,500 cP 35,500 cP No Additive plastic 2-B Body 46 degrees Plastic600,000 cP 270,000 cP 96,000 cP 42,000 cP 10% Fibrin 3-A Claw 44 degreesPseudo- 134,000 cP  82,000 cP 38,400 cP 27,500 cP No Additive plastic3-B Claw 46 degrees Plastic 700,000 cP 350,000 cP 120,000 cP  60,000 cP8% Fibrin 4-A Claw 44 degrees Pseudo- 115,000 cP  72,500 cP 40,000 cP25,500 cP No Additive plastic 4-B Claw 48 degrees Plastic 480,000 cP220,000 cP 80,000 cP 38,000 cP 5% Fibrin

It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or twoor more together, may also find utility in applications different fromthe types described. While the invention has been illustrated anddescribed as crab meat food products and methods and systems for makingsuch products, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown,since various modifications and substitutions can be made withoutdeparting in any way from the spirit of the present invention. As such,further modifications and equivalents of the invention disclosed hereinmay occur to persons skilled in the art using no more than routineexperimentation, and all such modifications and equivalents are believedto be within the spirit and scope of the invention as described herein.

That which is claimed is:
 1. An uncooked crab meat product comprising:(a) uncooked crab meat; and (b) at least one protein binding agentcomprising fibrinogen and thrombin that promotes protein binding,wherein the at least one protein binding agent is mixed with theuncooked crab meat in an amount such that proteins in the meat and/or inthe protein binding agent bind to each other to the extent that gelationof the crab meat occurs to form a gelated uncooked crab meat product;wherein the gelated uncooked crab meat product comprises an increasedviscosity in comparison to the uncooked crab meat prior to gelationwherein the uncooked meat product is in one or more forms selected fromthe group consisting, of patties, steaks, fillets, nuggets, medallions,thin workable sheets, and stuffable pouches.
 2. The uncooked crab meatproduct of claim 1, wherein one or more of molds, casings or packagingis used to shape the uncooked crab meat product.
 3. The uncooked crabmeat product of claim 1, wherein the protein binding agent comprisesabout 0.05-20% of the gelated uncooked crab meat product.
 4. Theuncooked crab meat product of claim 1, wherein the protein binding agentcomprises about 0.10-10% of the gelated uncooked crab meat product. 5.The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1, wherein the protein bindingagent comprises about 1-10% of the gelated uncooked crab meat product.6. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1, wherein the proteinbinding agent comprises about 4-9% of the gelated uncooked crab meatproduct.
 7. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1, wherein theprotein binding agent comprises about 0.4-1.4% of the gelated uncookedcrab meat product.
 8. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1, whereinthe protein binding agent comprises about 1.4-3% of the gelated uncookedcrab meat product.
 9. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1, whereinthe protein binding agent comprises about 0.75-2.5% of the gelateduncooked crab meat product.
 10. The uncooked crab meat product of claim1, wherein the uncooked crab meat product is in the form of a fillet.11. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 10, wherein the uncookedcrab meat product is fried, grilled or baked.
 12. The uncooked crab meatproduct of claim 1, wherein the at least one protein binding agentcomprises transglutaminase.
 13. The uncooked crab meat product of claim1, wherein the gelated uncooked crab meat product further comprises oneor more additives.
 14. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 13,wherein the additive is one or more members selected from the groupconsisting of salts, fillers, buffers, other animal proteins, othervegetable proteins, and other compounds that may support the gelationmethod.
 15. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1, wherein theuncooked crab meat comprises crab from the Infraorder Brachyura or theInfraorder Anomura.
 16. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 1,wherein the gelated meat comprises an increase in viscosity.
 17. Theuncooked crab meat product of claim 1, wherein the increase in viscosityis at least 100% as measured at a shear stress of 2 revolutions perminute (RPM).
 18. A method for reducing costs and/or producing higheryields of an uncooked crab meat product wherein the uncooked crab meatproduct is to be used in food products comprising the steps of: (a)obtaining uncooked meat from a crab by soft separation; (b) mixing theuncooked meat with at least one protein binding agent comprisingfibrinogen and thrombin that promotes binding of protein in the uncookedcrab meat; and (c) incubating, the uncooked crab meat and the at leastone protein binding agent under conditions such that proteins in theuncooked crab meat and in the protein binding agent bind to each otherto the extent that gelation of the uncooked crab meat occurs; whereinthe gelated uncooked crab meat product comprises an increased viscosityin comparison to the uncooked crab meat prior to gelation.
 19. Themethod of claim 18, wherein the uncooked crab meat and the at least oneprotein binding agent are incubated under conditions to produce a meatproduct that comprises a substantially solid form.
 20. The method ofclaim 19, wherein the substantially solid form is suitable for directculinary use or mass processing.
 21. An uncooked crab meat productcomprising: (a) uncooked crab meat; and (b) at least one protein bindingagent comprising transglutaminase that promotes protein binding, whereinthe at least one protein binding agent is mixed with the uncooked crabmeat in an amount such that proteins in the meat and/or in the proteinbinding agent bind to each other to the extent that gelation of the crabmeat occurs to form a gelated uncooked crab meat product; wherein thegelated uncooked crab meat product comprises an increased viscosity incomparison to the uncooked crab meat prior to gelation.
 22. The uncookedcrab meat product of claim 21, wherein the uncooked meat product is inone or more forms selected from the group consisting of patties, steaks,fillets, nuggets, medal lions, thin workable sheets, and stuffablepouches.
 23. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 22, wherein one ormore of molds, casings or packaging is used to shape the uncooked crabmeat product.
 24. The uncooked crab meat product of claim 21, whereinthe protein binding agent comprises about 0.05-20% of the gelateduncooked crab meat product.
 25. The uncooked crab meat product of claim21, wherein the protein binding agent comprises about 0.10-10% of thegelated uncooked crab meat product.
 26. The uncooked crab meat productof claim 21, wherein the protein binding agent comprises about 1-10% ofthe gelated uncooked crab meat product.
 27. The uncooked crab meatproduct of claim 21, wherein the protein binding agent comprises about4-9% of the gelated uncooked crab meat product.
 28. The uncooked crabmeat product of claim 21, wherein the protein binding, agent comprisesabout 0.4-1.4% of the gelated uncooked crab meat product.